The ringing of the bell is approaching for millions of students, and with the return to the classroom an increasingly current challenge also returns: that of protecting privacy. In an increasingly digital school context, between electronic registers, class chats, smartphones, artificial intelligence tools and online platforms, the protection of personal data remains a crucial issue for schools and families. To orient yourself in this scenario, the indications contained in the latest edition (2025) of the handbook "The privacy-proof school" apply, a guide developed by the Guarantor for the protection of personal data aimed at school managers, teachers, students and parents. Here are the most important rules and tips to know at the start of the new school year.
CLASS THEME - The teacher who assigns papers concerning the personal or family world of the students does not violate privacy. However, particular balance is required when the topics deal with delicate aspects of the private lives of pupils. The interest of the minor must prevail and situations that may expose personal or family information within the classroom must be avoided.
VOTES AND EXAMS - The results of the ballots can be communicated according to the methods established by school regulations. The grades of the individual disciplines can be consulted in the reserved area of the electronic register by the individual student and his family. Online publication of the results remains prohibited, as the data could remain online indefinitely and compromise student confidentiality.
SMARTPHONES AND TABLETS - The use of devices is subject to the limitations established by the Ministry of Education and Merit and school regulations. In any case, students and staff cannot disseminate images, audio or video without having informed the interested parties and obtained their consent.
Particular attention is required when publishing content on social networks or messaging systems.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE - AI tools can support learning and school organization, but must be used with adequate guarantees. The guidelines recall the prohibition of particularly invasive practices, such as the recognition of emotions, and recommend limiting the processing of personal data of students and teachers, favoring where possible synthetic data and solutions that respect privacy.
CLASS CHAT - WhatsApp groups created by parents or students do not fall within the school's institutional activities. However, they remain subject to the rules on the protection of personal data. It is therefore necessary to avoid the dissemination of information, photographs or videos without the consent of the interested parties. For official communications, the Guarantor recommends giving priority to dedicated tools, such as the electronic register.
RECORDING OF LESSONS - It is permitted exclusively for personal study purposes and in compliance with the provisions of the school. Any different use or dissemination requires prior information and consent of the people involved. However, video recording of class dynamics is not permitted. The compensatory tools provided for students with DSA or other specific educational needs remain guaranteed.
RECITATIONS, TRIPS AND PHOTOS OF CHILDREN - Parents can photograph or film their children during recitals, recitals and school outings for personal and family use. However, the online publication of images generally requires the consent of those with parental responsibility for the other minors present.
SHARENTING AND SOCIAL - The Guarantor invites families to be more cautious when sharing images and information about their children online. Photos and videos published on social media contribute to building the digital identity of minors and can remain online for a long time, escaping the control of their parents.
CYBERBULLYING AND OTHER RISK PHENOMENA - If you are a victim of hateful comments, cyberbullying, sexting, revenge porn or other interference in your private life, you should not wait for the situation to degenerate. It is necessary to immediately notify classmates, teachers and families if you realize that someone is being insulted or put under pressure by classmates or strangers.
INCLUSION AND SENSITIVE DATA - Schools must pay maximum attention to data relating to disabilities and other educational needs. Information of this type cannot be disseminated through circulars, electronic registers or publications accessible to unauthorized parties. Numerous measures adopted by the Guarantor concerned the improper communication of data linked to school inclusion paths.
